Sweet and Spicy Pretzel Mix

  • 3 Tbsp light brown sugar
  • 2 tsp. fresh thyme, chopped (divided)
  • 3/4 tsp. kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 cup pecans
  • 1/2 cup blanched almonds (see below)
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp butter
  • 3 cups tiny unsalted pretzels
  • 1 cup Rice Chex
  • 2 Tbsp pure maple syrup
 
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.  In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, one teaspoon of thyme, salt, cinnamon and cayenne pepper, set aside.  
 
To blanch your almonds, place them in a small bowl and pour boiling water over them to cover just the top.  Allow almonds to sit covered in hot water for one minute (don't go over) then drain and rinse under cold water.  Peel the skins off the almonds and they are ready to go.

Spread the blanched almonds and pecans onto a baking sheet and bake at 350 for about 10 minutes.  In a medium bowl, mix together nuts and butter until melted and then gently stir in pretzels, cereal and syrup.  Sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly over pretzel mixture, tossing gently to coat.  
 
Spread entire mixture in a single layer onto a baking sheet and bake at 350 for about 10 minutes, stirring just once about halfway through.  Sprinkle with remaining teaspoon of thyme and allow to cool completely.  Enjoy!